Training device

ABSTRACT

A training device for maintaining or improving physical fitness comprises a first main element and a second main element, wherein the first main element and the second main element for training a user are manually movable in relation to one another in at least one activation direction of the training device. The training device furthermore has at least one damping installation for damping a relative movement between the first main element and the second main element, said damping installation being effective between the first main element and the second main element.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims priorities of German Patent ApplicationsNo. DE 10 2016 220 416.5 and DE 10 2017 203 733.4 filed on Oct. 18, 2016and Mar. 7, 2017, respectively, pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 119 (a)-(d), thecontents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entiretyas if fully set forth herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a training device for maintaining and improvingthe physical fitness of a user. The invention is furthermore directedtowards a training station having at least one such training device. Theinvention is moreover directed towards a use of the training device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A training device presently is understood to be in particular a devicewhich can be applied in the fitness sector, the sports sectors, thetherapeutic sector, and/or in the rehabilitation sector.

Training devices in general are known from the prior art by way ofobvious prior use. Said training devices are often of a complexconstruction and thus expensive. Such training devices often are alsonot particularly user-friendly and efficient such that said trainingdevices are not utilized in the long run.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is based on the object of overcoming the disadvantages ofthe prior art. In particular, a training device which is particularlyuser-friendly or efficient, respectively, on the one hand, and isextremely reliable in terms of functioning, on the other hand, is to beprovided. Moreover, the intention is to achieve a corresponding trainingstation.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a training devicefor maintaining or improving physical fitness, comprising a first mainelement, a second main element, wherein the first main element and thesecond main element for training a user are manually movable in relationto one another in at least one activation direction of the trainingdevice; and at least one damping installation for damping a relativemovement between the first main element and the second main element,said damping installation being effective between the first main elementand the second main element. Furthermore, this object is achieved by atraining station comprising at least one training device according tothe invention. Furthermore, this object is achieved by a use of atraining device according to the invention for training at least oneagonist and at least one associated antagonist as the adversary of auser. The core concept of the invention lies in that a relative movementthat during training arises between the main elements is capable ofbeing damped by the at least one damping installation, on account ofwhich a (training) resistance, or a counterforce, respectively, isestablished and efficient training is possible.

During training, the training device is favourably activatable inmutually opposite activation directions, this in comparison withcorresponding training devices of the usual type permitting intensivetraining The at least one activation direction is, for example, a lineardirection and/or a rotation direction. For example, the first mainelement is displaceable in the at least one activation direction inrelation to the second main element.

Alternatively, the second main element is displaceable in the at leastone activation direction in relation to the first main element.Alternatively, the first main element and the second main element aredisplaceable in relation to one another in the at least one activationdirection.

In particular, at least one body part of a user, such as the latter'sarm(s), shoulder region, chest region, neck region, leg(s), back, and/orstomach can be trained using the training device.

The work that is performed during training favourably depends on therelative displacement distance between the first main element and thesecond main element. The greater the relative displacement distancecovered, the greater the work performed and thus the more intensive thetraining There is preferably a (directly) proportional correlation.

The first main element is favourably embodied so as to be elongate. Itis advantageous for the first main element to be rigid. Said first mainelement is embodied as a bar, a tube, or the like, for example. It isexpedient for the first main element to have a length between 30 cm and60 cm.

It is expedient for the second main element to be embodied so as to beelongate. The second main element is preferably rigid. Said second mainelement is embodied as a bar, a tube, or the like, for example. It isexpedient for the second main element to have a length between 30 cm and60 cm.

The training station is in particular a stationary multi-functiontraining station which permits a multiplicity of various trainingexercises to be carried out for holistic training For example, saidtraining station has a butterfly installation, a bench-pressinstallation, a leg-extension installation, and/or at least one tractioninstallation for training the biceps, triceps, latissimus dorsi, back,and/or leg. The at least one training device that is employed ensures a(training) resistance, or a counterforce, when the training is carriedout.

The first grip and the second grip, which are connected to the firstmain element or the second main element, respectively, favourably form ahandle and/or an activation grip for holding or activating,respectively, the training device. It is advantageous for the first andsecond grips to be removable or replaceable, respectively, in particularin a tool-free manner. For example, the first and/or the second grip canbe configured on the first or the second main element, respectively.

The at least one damping installation is fastened to the first mainelement. This is preferably established by way of an interference fit, aform-fit, and/or a materially integral fit. The at least one dampinginstallation is favourably rotationally fixed and axially fixed inrelation to the first main element. Alternatively, the at least onedamping installation is fastened to the second main element.

The design embodiment according to which the at least one dampinginstallation engages in regions in the first main element leads to aparticularly stress-resistant connection between the at least onedamping installation and the first main element.

The embodiment according to which the at least one damping installationprojects axially in relation to the first main element is particularlyreliable in terms of functioning.

Preferably, the at least one damping installation is configured as afriction damping installation.

The training device in which the at the least one damping installationis configured as a friction damping installation is particularlyreliable in terms of functioning and is producible in a particularlycost-effective manner. Furthermore, such a training device isparticularly lightweight which is perceived to be pleasant duringtraining A friction-related effect arises during training Staticfriction which can only be overcome by a sufficiently high force that isgenerated during training initially acts in particular between themutually interacting friction faces. Such a training device favourablydoes without training weights or training spring elements, respectively.Alternatively, the damping installation is embodied as a pneumaticdamping installation or a hydraulic damping installation. Combinationsare possible as alternatives. The damping installation has at least onefriction element for bearing in a friction-imparting manner on thesecond main element is preferably embodied so as to be annular. Saidfriction element is formed from a rubber material or from acorresponding plastics material, for example. There is preferably a highcoefficient of friction which, for example, is at least 0.2, morepreferably at least 0.3, between the at least one friction element andthe second main element.

The friction energy, or the training, respectively, preferably dependson the relative displacement distance that is covered between the firstmain element and the second main element. The greater the relativedisplacement distance covered, the greater the friction energy.Furthermore, the friction energy favourably depends on a normal forcewhich is present between the friction damping installation and the mainelement, or the friction face of the latter, respectively, that isconnected to said friction damping installation by friction. There ispreferably a directly proportional correlation. The friction force, orthe friction resistance, respectively, preferably increases in a linearmanner with the normal force.

The at least one friction element in the at least one activationdirection is held so as to be, in particular at all times, thuspreferably without any free-wheeling feature, or across an entireactivation distance of the training device, respectively, immobile inrelation to the first main element. A, in particular consistent oruniform, respectively, training resistance during training is thusprovided at all times in the activation of the training device along theat least one activation direction, or across the entire activationdistance.

The at least one main body of the at least one damping installation onwhich the at least one friction element is disposed is preferablyrotationally symmetrical. Said main body preferably has at least onegas-communication opening in order for an exchange of gas, in particularan exchange of air, to be permitted between the main elements duringtraining There is thus no pneumatic resistance during training The atleast one friction element preferably runs about the at least one mainbody. The at least one main body and the at least one friction elementin the at least one activation direction are, in particular at alltimes, immobile in relation to one another provides a particularly hightraining effect. The at least one friction element is preferably, inparticular at all times, thus preferably without a freewheeling feature,or across an entire activation distance of the training device,respectively, fixed axially and preferably also in a rotationally fixedmanner to the at least one main body. There is thus an in particularconsistent or uniform, respectively, training resistance at all times inthe activation of the training device along the at least one activationdirection, or across the entire activation distance, respectively.

The training device in which the at least one main body comprises atleast one receptacle clearance for receiving the at least one frictionelement enables an extremely secure arrangement of the at least onefriction element on the at least one main body. The at least onefriction element is favourably received in a form-fitting manner in theat least one receptacle clearance. The at least one receptacle clearanceis in particular adapted precisely to the at least one friction element,or to the dimension(s) of the latter, respectively. The at least onereceptacle clearance is preferably embodied as an annular groove that isopen towards the outside.

The training device in which a training resistance of the at least onedamping installation is, in particular infinitely, variable is extremelyuser-friendly. For example, said training device in terms of thetraining resistance is correspondingly adjustable depending on a levelof practice or a physical state of the user. The training device is thusalso utilizable by different users which have different levels ofstrength, or wish to train using different training resistances,respectively. It is advantageous for an effective friction resistance tobe adjustable between 10 N and 150 N, for example.

For example, the training resistance is adjustable by setting a normalforce which prevails between the at least one friction element and themain elements that are connected to the latter by friction.Alternatively or additionally, the training resistance can be set bychanging, in particular in terms of magnitude, the effective frictionfaces between the at least one friction element and the main elementconnected thereto by friction. For example, there are a plurality offriction elements, wherein the number of the effective friction elementscan be set so as to depend on the desired training resistance.

During training using the training device in which the at least onedamping installation, in particular at all times and/or consistently,damps in two mutually opposite activation directions, there isfavourably a substantially uniform or consistent, respectively, trainingresistance during the entire activation of the training device, thusalso in particular during a return movement of the training device, thisleading to a particularly long-lasting and/or substantially uniformstress acting on the training device or on the user, respectively. Aquasi-simultaneous activation of opposite muscles or muscle groups,respectively, or of at least one agonist and of the at least oneassociated antagonist as the adversary of the user, respectively, isthus also achievable, this resulting in particularly intensive trainingFor example, this leads to a particularly high muscle density and/or toan extremely high muscle volume. The at least one damping installationfavourably damps a first relative movement between the two main elementsalong an entire first activation distance in a first activationdirection, while the at least one second damping installation preferablydamps a second relative movement between the two main elements along anentire second activation distance in a second activation direction. Thetraining resistances arising herein are favourably consistent oridentical, respectively. The first activation direction is favourably anextension direction of the training device, while the second activationdirection is a retraction or return direction, respectively, of thetraining device.

Alternatively, the first activation direction is a first rotationdirection, while the second activation direction is a return direction.

The training device in which at least one guide part for guiding themain elements in relation to one another, said guide part being disposedbetween the first main element and the second main element, isparticularly user-friendly. It is advantageous for the at least oneguide part to be rotationally symmetrical. There is preferably acomparatively low coefficient of friction which is in particular lessthan 0.3, more preferably less than 0.2 between the first main elementand the at least one guide part. To this end, the at least one guidepart favourably has at least one corresponding guide face or slidingface, respectively. Said guide part is favourably fastened to the secondmain element. A reversed arrangement is alternatively possible.

The training device in which the first main element and the second mainelement are interconnected in a telescopic manner permits training whichis particularly efficient and pleasant. A space-saving storage ispossible. In particular, a compressive force and/or a tensile force canbe exerted on the training device. The at least one damping installationdamps a linear relative movement that during training arises between themain elements.

The training device in which the first main element and the second mainelement are rotatable in relation to one another, wherein a relativemovement between the two former is capable of being damped by the atleast one damping installation, also permits training that isparticularly efficient and pleasant. A rotation force, torsion force, ora corresponding torque, respectively, can be exerted on the trainingdevice. The at least one damping installation damps a rotationalrelative movement that during training arises between the main elements.The training device favourably has two grips, or grip regions,respectively, having grip axes that are mutually perpendicular. Thetraining resistance of the training device is preferably adjustable suchas by way of at least one adjustment bracket

The training device embodied as a hand-held apparatus is particularlyportable and is employable in a diverse manner.

The main frame of the training station favourably has at least one basefoot, or a base face, respectively, for support in relation to a groundsuch as a floor or the like. The main frame is preferably rigid.

The at least one activation element, which is provided for activation bya user, said at least one activation element being mounted on the mainframe, wherein the at least one training device while generating atraining resistance damps the activation of the at least one activationelement, is mounted directly or indirectly on the main frame. Forexample, said activation element is mounted so as to be pivotable,rotatable, and/or displaceable, on the main frame. The at least oneactivation element is preferably embodied in the manner of an arm,lever, or bar, respectively. It is advantageous for the at least oneactivation element to be rigid. The at least one activation elementfavourably has at least one engagement face, or an engagement element,respectively, for engaging with the user, in particular with at leastone body part of the user. For example, a user by way his/her at leastone hand, his/her at least one arm, his/her at least one foot, and/orhis/her at least one leg, engages thereon when using the trainingstation.

Connection elements such as articulated lugs, are favourably presentwhen the at least one training device is employed in a training station.

It is advantageous for at least one training device for ensuring atraining resistance to be disposed between the main frame and the atleast one activation element. The main frame and/or the at least oneactivation element can be a component part of the at least one trainingdevice.

The training station in which the main frame supports at least one seatfor the user permits comfortable training without fatigue.

The at least one arm training installation for training at least one armof a user is embodied, for example, as a (bench) press installation, apress installation, a traction installation, or the like.

It is advantageous for the training station to have at least oneseat-belt installation for the user to be strapped in, in particular forfixing an upper part of the anatomy of the user, during training.Particularly effective, smooth and safe training is thus possible. Theat least one seat-belt installation preferably has at least one shoulderbelt and/or lap belt.

The training station comprising at least one torso training installationfor training a torso of a user is favourably also equipped with at leastone corresponding seat-belt installation.

The at least one leg training installation for training at least one legof a user is embodied, for example, as a leg-extension installation, aleg press, a calf press, a leg bending installation, an abductorinstallation, a (ski cross-country) running installation, or the like.

The training station is preferably embodied so as to be symmetrical inrelation to a central plane. Said training station preferably has alongitudinal direction and a transverse direction that runsperpendicularly to said longitudinal direction. The longitudinaldirection preferably runs in a viewing direction of a user of thetraining station.

Each training station is transportable in a particularly simple manner.Said training station has a very light weight. Each training station isfavourably equipped with at least one castor for displacing the former.

When the training device is being used for training at least one agonistand at least one associated antagonist as the adversary of a user,symmetrical training is thus possible. Mutually opposite muscles ormuscle groups, respectively, of the user can thus be trained. This isthe case in particular when the training device is activated in twomutually opposite activation directions.

Concentric isotonic training can favourably be carried out using thetraining devices or training stations, respectively. Isokinetic trainingis possible under certain circumstances, such as in the case of veryslow training The (training) resistance is favourable adjustable in thecase of all training devices or training stations, respectively.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in an exemplarymanner hereunder with reference to the appended drawing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 shows a side view of a training device according to theinvention, according to a first embodiment, said training device beingin its extended position;

FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal section through the training device shown inFIG. 1, said longitudinal section corresponding to the section lineII-II;

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the training device visualized in FIGS. 1and 2, wherein said training device is in the collapsed positionthereof;

FIG. 4 shows a longitudinal section corresponding to the section lineIV-IV in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 shows the damping installation of the visualized training deviceidentified as detail V in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a training device according to theinvention, according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 7 shows a side view of a training station according to theinvention, according to a first embodiment which comprises a bench-pressinstallation and two training devices according to FIGS. 1 to 5;

FIG. 8 shows a side view of a training station according to theinvention, according to a second embodiment which comprises analternative bench-press installation and two training devices accordingto FIGS. 1 to 5;

FIG. 9 shows a front view of a training station according to theinvention, according to a third embodiment which comprises a side-pressinstallation and two training devices according to FIGS. 1 to 5;

FIG. 10 shows a side view of a training station according to theinvention, according to a fourth embodiment which comprises aleg-extension installation and two training devices according to FIGS. 1to 5;

FIG. 11 shows a side view of a training station according to theinvention, which comprises a forward-bend installation and two trainingdevices according to FIGS. 1 to 5;

FIG. 12 shows a plan view of a training station according to theinvention, according to a fifth embodiment which comprises a runninginstallation and two training devices according to FIGS. 1 to 5; and

FIG. 13 shows a side view of the training station shown in FIG. 12.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A training device which in its entirety is visualized in FIGS. 1 to 4comprises a first elongate main tube 1 and a second elongate main tube2, and a friction damping installation 3 that is effective between themain tubes 1, 2. The main tubes 1, 2 are interconnected in atelescopically collapsible manner.

The first main tube 1 and the second main tube 2, while generating atraining resistance, are displaceable by an operator (not illustrated)in relation to one another in a damped manner along a longitudinal axis4 of the training device.

The first main tube 1 is annular in the cross section. Said first maintube has a first external diameter DA 1.

A first grip 5 is fastened to one end of the first main tube 1. Thefirst grip 5 is rotationally fixed as well as axially fixed in relationto the first main tube 1. Said first grip 5 favourably extends so as tobe perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 4.

The friction damping installation 3 is fastened to the end side of thefirst main tube 1 so as to be opposite the first grip 5. Said frictiondamping installation 3 is rotationally fixed as well as axially fixed inrelation to the first main tube 1.

The friction damping installation 3 has a substantially cylindrical mainbody 6 which by way of an engagement region 7 engages in a form-fittingmanner in the first main tube 1. The main body 6 otherwise projectsaxially from the first main tube 1 such that the main body 6 forms aquasi extension of the first main tube 1. The main body 6 moreoverradially projects slightly from the first main tube 1. Said main body 6is axially penetrated by a gas-communication opening 14.

An annular receptacle clearance 8 that is open towards the outside andin the direction of the longitudinal axis 4 on both sides is delimitedby mutually spaced apart annular protrusions 9, 10 of the main body 6 isconfigured on the main body 6. The receptacle clearance 8 has a bed 11that runs about the longitudinal axis 4, the consistent diameter of saidbed 11 at all times corresponding to approximately the first externaldiameter DA1. The main body 6 in the region of the bed 11 is embodied asa circular cylinder. The receptacle clearance 8 is arranged so as to beat a distance from the first main tube 1.

A friction element 12 that is circumferentially closed and projectsradially outward from the annular protrusions 9, 10 and bears on the bed11 is received in the receptacle clearance 8. The friction element 12 atall times is rotationally fixed and axially fixed in relation to themain body 6. The length of the friction element 12 in the longitudinaldirection 4 corresponds to the spacing of the annular protrusions 9, 10in the longitudinal direction 4. The friction element 12 at all timesbears on both sides on the annular protrusions 9, 10. Said frictionelement 12 has an outward-facing free friction face 13. The frictionface 13 defines an external diameter DA which is larger than the firstexternal diameter DA1.

The second main tube 2 is annular in the cross section. A second grip 15is fastened to one end of the second main tube 2. The second grip 15 isaxially fixed and rotationally fixed in relation the second main tube 2.Said second grip 15 extends so as to be substantially perpendicular tothe longitudinal axis 4.

The second main tube 2 has a second internal diameter DI2 which islarger than the first external diameter DA1. The second internaldiameter DI2 is approximately the size of the external diameter DA ofthe friction element 12.

The main body 6 in the assembled state of the training device is locatedat least largely within the second main tube 2. The friction element 12herein, by way of the friction face 13 thereof, bears in a planar manneron the inside of the second main tube 2, the latter there thus having afriction face 19.

A guide bush 16 is disposed on the end side of the second main tube 2,so as to be opposite the second grip 15. The guide bush 16 is axiallyfixed and rotationally fixed in relation to the second main tube 2. Saidguide bush 16 by way of an encircling internal guide face or slide face17, respectively, bears on the outside of the first main tube 1, or isdisposed so as to be closely adjacent to the latter, respectively. Theguide bush 16 at the end side has an annular shoulder 18 that projectsradially outward and opposite the second grip 15 bears on the end sideof the second main tube 2.

The training device when in use will be described hereunder. In anexemplary manner, a first terminal position of the training device asshown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is assumed. The training device herein has atotal length which is between 70 cm and 140 cm.

A user of the training device which each hand acquires one of the grips5, 15. For training, the grips 5, 15 are compressed towards one anotherby the user, leading to the two main tubes 1, 2 in a first activationdirection of the training device to be collapsed along the longitudinalaxis 4. A force, in particular a compressive force, is thus exerted onthe training device. The friction element 12 herein at all times isdisplaced conjointly with the first main tube 1 in relation to thesecond main tube 2, said friction element 12 by way of the friction face13 thereof engaging by friction on the inside of the second main tube 2,or on the friction face 19 of the latter, respectively. The frictionelement 12 herein damps or impedes, respectively, this relative movementbetween the main tubes 1, 2, leading to efficient training, inparticular of at least one first muscle group of the user. The user isprovided with a counterforce. The guide bush 16 prevents mutual tiltingof the main tubes 1, 2 in the relative movement of the latter.

The training device then reaches the collapsed position thereof, whichis shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and forms a second terminal position. Thetraining device herein as a total length which is between 40 cm and 80cm.

The grips 5, 15 are then pushed or pulled apart, respectively, leadingto an expansion of the two main tubes 1, 2 in a second activationdirection of the training device along the longitudinal axis 4. Thesecond activation direction is opposite to the first activationdirection. A force, in particular a tensile force, is exerted on thetraining device. The friction element 12 herein at all times is againdisplaced conjointly with the first main tube 1 in relation to thesecond main tube 2, said main tube 1 by way of the friction face 13thereof engaging by friction on the inside of the second main tube 2, oron the friction face 19 of the latter, respectively. The frictionelement 12 herein damps or impedes, respectively, this relative movementbetween the main tubes 1, 2, leading to efficient training, inparticular of at least one second muscle group of the user. Acounterforce is provided. The at least one first and second musclegroups differ from one another. Said muscle groups are preferablytrained based on the principle of antagonism. There is preferably atleast one agonist and at least one associated antagonist as theadversary. The force required for expanding and collapsing the maintubes 1, 2 is substantially identical. The guide bush 16 prevents mutualtilting of the main tubes 1, 2 in the relative movement of the latter.

The specified activation of the training device is repeated any numberof times. In particular, the arms, the shoulders, the back, and thechest region of the person training are trained herein. The trainingresistance is preferably variable.

Other exercises can be alternatively performed using the trainingdevice. For example, a foot of the user can be placed on the one grip 5,15, while corresponding forces are again exerted on the other grip 15, 5by the user.

For example, relative rotating movements about the longitudinal axis 4,which are correspondingly damped by way of the friction element 12, canalso be initiated by way of the grips 5, 15.

A second embodiment of the training device which permits training bymeans of damped relative rotating movements will be described hereunderwith reference to FIG. 6. Identical parts are provided with the samereference signs as in the preceding embodiment, explicit referenceherewith being made to the description of the latter. Parts withequivalent functions but of different construction are provided with thesame reference sign followed by the index “a”.

The training device according to FIG. 6 comprises a first elongate mainelement 1 a. Moreover, the training device has a second elongate maintube 2 a and a friction damping installation 3 a which is effectivebetween the first main element 1 a and the second main element 2 a. Thefirst main element 1 a and the second main tube 2 a are pivotable ortwistable, respectively, in relation to one another.

The first main element 1 a is favourably annular or circular in thecross section.

A first grip 5 a is fastened to a free end of the first main element 1a. The first grip 5 a is axially fixed and rotationally fixed inrelation to the first main element 1 a. Said first grip 5 a extends soas to be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 4, or to the first mainelement 1 a.

The friction damping installation 3 a is disposed on the first mainelement 1 a. The friction damping installation 3 a is axially fixed androtationally fixed in relation to the first main element 1 a. Thefriction damping installation 3 a has at least one friction element 12 awhich, for example, is received in a respective receptacle clearance inthe first main element 1 a, or in a main body that is arranged on thefirst main element 1 a, respectively. The friction element 12 isfavourably circumferentially closed and is rotationally fixed andaxially fixed in relation to the first main element 1 a. To the extentthat the friction element 12 a is received in a receptacle clearance,said friction element 12 favourably projects radially outward inrelation to said receptacle clearance. The friction element 12 a has anoutward-facing free friction face 13 a.

The second main tube 2 a is annular in the cross section. A second grip15 a is configured on the outside of the circumference of the main tube2 a. The second grip 15 a extends about the longitudinal axis 4 andalong the latter.

The first main element 1 a in the assembled state of the training deviceis received in the second main tube 2 a. The friction element 12 a, byway of the friction face 13 a, herein bears in a planar manner on theinside of the second main tube 2 a, the latter there thus having afriction face. The first grip 5 a is located outside the first mainelement 1 a.

The first main element 1 a in relation to the friction dampinginstallation 3 a protrudes into the second main tube 2 a, or away fromthe first grip 5 a, respectively, such that the first main element 1 aand the second main tube 2 a are mutually guided and mutual tilting ofthe latter is precluded.

A linear detent 20 having an annular shoulder which runs about thelongitudinal axis 4 and prevents any displacement of the first mainelement 1 a and of the second main tube 2 a in relation to one anotheralong the longitudinal axis 4 is configured between the first mainelement 1 a and the second main tube 2 a.

The first main element 1 a and the second main tube 2 a, whilegenerating a training resistance, are pivotable or twistable,respectively, in relation to one another about the longitudinal axis 4of the training device by a user (not illustrated). A torsioningmovement can thus be carried out.

When being used, a user with each hand acquires one of the grips 5 a, 15a. In this instance, one grip 5 a, 15 a favourably extends in ahorizontal direction, while the other grip 5 a, 15 a extends in avertical direction. The training device is embodied as a hand-heldapparatus.

The grips 5 a, 15 a in a first relative activation direction areinitially pivoted about the longitudinal axis 4. A torsion force or atorque, respectively, is thus exerted on the training device. Thefriction element 12 a herein bears by friction on the inside of thesecond main tube 2 a, or on the friction face of the latter,respectively. The friction element 12 a herein damps or impedes,respectively, this relative movement between the first main element 1 aand the second main tube 2 a, leading to efficient training, inparticular of at least one first muscle group of the user. The user isprovided with a counterforce.

Subsequently, the grips 5 a, 15 a in a second relative activationdirection are pivoted about the longitudinal axis 4, said secondrelative activation direction being opposite to the first activationdirection. A second force, in particular a torsion force or a torque,respectively, is exerted on the training device. Again, the frictionelement 12 a herein, by way of the friction face 13 a thereof, engagesby friction on the inside of the second main tube 2 a, or on thefriction face of the latter, respectively. The friction element 12 aherein damps or impedes, respectively, this relative movement betweenthe first main element 1 a and the second main tube 2 a, leading toefficient training, in particular of at least one second muscle group ofthe user. A counterforce is provided. The at least one first and onesecond muscle groups differ from one another. Said muscle groups arepreferably trained based on the principle of antagonism. There ispreferably at least one agonist and at least one associated antagonistas the adversary. The force required for pivoting in the first and inthe second activation direction is substantially identical.

The specified activation of the training device is repeated any numberof times. In particular, the wrists, the arms, and the chest region ofthe person training, or of the user, respectively, are trained herein.This is highly advantageous in particular for people who participate inbatting sports or throwing sports, and for users who work at computerstations. The training resistance is preferably variable.

According to an alternative embodiment, the friction dampinginstallation 3 a is disposed on the second main tube 2 a. The at leastone friction element 12 a by way of the friction face 13 a thereof inthis instance engages by friction on the outside of the circumference ofthe first main element 1 a. The training resistance is preferablyvariable.

A first embodiment of a training station having two training devicesaccording to FIGS. 1 to 5 will be explained hereunder with reference toFIG. 7, wherein reference is made to the description of said twotraining devices according to FIGS. 1 to 5.

The training station comprises a main frame 21 which by way of feet 22can be supported in relation to a ground. The feet 22 are interconnectedby way of a lower base frame 23 of the main frame 21. Castors (notillustrated) are favourably mounted on the main frame 21.

The main frame 21 supports a seat 24 which is disposed above the feet 22and runs so as to be substantially horizontal. Furthermore, the mainframe 21 supports a backrest 25 which is adjacent to the seat 24 andextends vertically or so as to be inclined in relation to a vertical.

The training station moreover has two activation elements 26 which aredisposed next to the seat 24 and are mounted on the main frame 21, inparticular on the base frame 23 thereof, so as to each be pivotableabout a horizontal pivot axis 27. The horizontal pivot axes 27 aremutually aligned and extend in a direction that is transverse to thetraining station, that is to say perpendicular to a viewing direction ofa user of the training station. Each activation element 26 has oneengagement region 28 that is spaced apart from the respective pivot axis27.

The training station moreover comprises two telescopic training devices,the resistance of the latter preferably being adjustable. Eachactivation element 26 is assigned one training device in order for anypivoting of the at least one activation element 26 about the respectivepivot axis 27 to be damped, or in order for a resistance orcounterforce, respectively, to be provided for countering this pivoting.

Each training device is disposed between the main frame 21 and therespective activation element 26. Said training device is articulated onthe main frame 21, in particular on the base frame 23. Furthermore, eachtraining device is articulated on an activation element 26, so as to bespaced apart from the pivot axis 27. Each training device extends fromthe main frame 21 obliquely upwards. Furthermore, said training deviceextends from there towards the front, or in a viewing direction of auser of the training device, respectively.

When training, a user is seated on the seat 24. Said user can supporthimself/herself on the backrest 25. Said user herein looks in a viewingdirection.

When a user pushes, or pivots, respectively, the activation elements 26from the backrest 25 forward and about the pivot axes 27, the trainingdevices are expanded, the friction damping installations 3 taking effectherein. When a user pulls, or pivots, respectively, the activationelements 26 back towards the backrest 25, the training devices arecollapsed, the friction damping installations 3 herein taking effectagain and a seat-belt installation taking effect. To this end, the userengages on the activation elements 26 by way of the engagement regions28. The arms and the chest of the user can thus be trained inparticular.

The activation elements 26 are movable in a mutually independent manner.According to an alternative embodiment, the two activation elements 26are rigidly intercoupled and movable only in a synchronous manner.

A second embodiment of a training station will be described hereunderwith reference to FIG. 8. Identical parts are provided with the samereference signs as in the embodiment according to FIG. 7, explicitreference herewith being made to the description of the latter. Partswith equivalent functions but of different construction are providedwith the same reference sign followed by the index “b”.

As compared to FIG. 7, the activation elements 26 b in the case of thetraining station according to FIG. 8 are mounted on a back frame 29 ofthe main frame 21 so as to be pivotable about a respective horizontalpivot axis 27 b, said pivot axes 27 b again being mutually aligned andrunning in the direction that is transverse to the training station. Theback frame 29 also supports the backrest 25.

Each activation element 26 b is assigned one telescopic training device,the training resistance of the latter preferably being adjustable. Eachtraining device is articulated on the back frame 29 and on an activationelement 26 b. The training devices extend from the back frame 29obliquely upwards. Said training devices from there run towards thefront, or in a viewing direction of a user of the training station,respectively. The activation of the activation elements 26 b is similarto that of the embodiment according to FIG. 7. The activation elements26 b, from the resting positions thereof, are pushed obliquely upwardsand then moved back in a corresponding manner, the seat-beltinstallation taking effect herein. The friction damping installations 3damp the movements of the activation elements 26 b. In particular, thearms, the chest, the back, and the shoulders of the user can be trainedherein. The training station is preferably relocatable.

A third embodiment of a training station will be described hereunderwith reference to FIG. 9. Identical parts are provided with the samereference signs as in the training station according to FIG. 7, explicitreference herewith being made to the description of the latter. Partswith equivalent functions but of different construction are providedwith the same reference signs followed by the index “c”.

The activation elements 26 c in the case of the training stationaccording to FIG. 9 again are articulated on the base frame 23 c. Saidactivation elements 26 c are pivotable about horizontal pivot axes 27 c,the latter however running parallel and mutually spaced apart beside oneanother in a longitudinal direction of the training station, or in aviewing direction of a user of the training station, respectively.

The activation elements 26 c are pivotable in a laterally outward mannerand a laterally inward manner about the pivot axes 27 c by a user.

Each activation element 26 c is assigned one training device, thetraining resistance of the latter preferably being adjustable. Eachtraining device is articulated on the main frame 21 c. Furthermore, eachtraining device is articulated on the respective activation element 26c, so as to be spaced apart from the respective pivot axis 27 c. Thetraining devices mutually diverge from the articulation points thereofon the main frame 21 c. Said training device extend in a direction thatis transverse to the training station. The training devices run so as tobe inclined in relation to a horizontal. Said training device, by way ofthe friction damping installations 3 thereof, damp the movements of theactivation elements 26 c in a laterally outward and laterally inwardmanner. In particular, the chest and arms can be trained thus. Aseat-belt installation is preferably present. The training station ispreferably relocatable.

A fourth embodiment of a training station will be described hereunderwith reference to FIG. 10. Parts of identical construction are providedwith the same reference signs as in the training station according toFIG. 7, reference herewith being made to the description of the latter.Parts with equivalent functions but of different construction areprovided with the same reference signs followed by the index “d”.

An activation element 25 d is now articulated on the seat 24 or on aseat frame of the main frame 21 d, respectively. The activation element26 d is pivotable about a horizontal pivot axis 27 d which runs abovethe base frame 23 d in a direction that is transverse to the trainingstation.

The activation element 26 d at the free end thereof has upholsteredelements on which a user can engage with his/her foot in order for saidactivation element 26 d to be pivoted.

Two telescopic training devices, in particular having an adjustableresistance, are articulated on the activation element 26 d so as to bespaced apart from the pivot axis 27 d. The training devices arefurthermore articulated on the main frame 21 d. The training devicesextend in a longitudinal direction of the training station. Saidtraining devices run from the articulation points thereof on the mainframe 21 d towards the front and by way of the friction dampinginstallations 3 of said training devices damp the forward and rearwardmovements of the activation element 26 d about the pivot axis 27 d. Inparticular, legs can thus be trained. The training station is preferablyrelocatable.

A fifth embodiment of a training station will be described hereunderwith reference to FIG. 11. Identical parts are provided with the samereference signs as in the training station according to FIG. 7,reference herewith being made to the description of the latter. Partswith equivalent functions but of different construction are providedwith the same reference signs followed by the index “e”.

The backrest 25 e in the case of the training station according to FIG.11 is pivotable about a horizontal pivot axis 27 e. The pivot axis 27 eruns so as to be approximately level with the seat 24 in a directionthat is transverse to the training station.

Two telescopic training devices, in particular having an adjustableresistance, are articulated laterally on the backrest 25 e. Saidtraining devices are moreover articulated on the seat 24, or on a seatframe of the main frame 21 e, respectively. The training devices extendin a longitudinal direction of the training station. Said trainingdevices from the backrest 25 e run towards the front, or in a viewingdirection of a user of the training station, respectively.

The backrest 25 e is pivotable about the pivot axis 27 e in a rearwardmanner by a user, or by the torso of the latter, respectively. Thefriction damping installations 3 damp a movement of the backrest 25 e.The backrest 25 e thus forms an activation element 26 e. Both thestomach as well as the back are trained when training The frictiondamping installations 3 damp movements of the backrest 25 e in bothdirections. The training station is preferably relocatable.

A sixth embodiment of a training station will be described hereunderwith reference to FIGS. 12, 13. Identical parts are provided with thesame reference signs as in the embodiment according to FIG. 7, explicitreference herewith being made to the description of the latter. Partswith equivalent functions but of different construction are providedwith the same reference signs followed by the index “f”.

The main frame 21 f, or the base frame 23 f thereof, respectively, inthe case of the training station according to FIGS. 12, 13 comprises twosecond main elements 2 f which run parallel so as to be mutually spacedapart beside one another. The second main elements 2 f are embodied soas to be elongate and extend in a longitudinal direction of the trainingstation. Said second main elements 2 f have an angular cross section,for example. The main frame 21 f moreover has two crossbars 28 which runbetween the two main elements 2 f.

A first main element 1 f which is substantially shorter than the secondmain element 2 f and is preferably tubular is guided in a displaceablemanner on each second main element 2 f.

A linear friction damping installation 3 f is fastened to each firstmain element 1 f. Said installation is axially fixed in relation to thecorresponding first main element 1F. Each friction damping installation3 f has a friction element 12 f which bears by friction on the outsideof the second main element 2 f.

A foot receptacle 26 f is disposed on the top of each first main element1 f.

This training station permits running or ski cross-country training,respectively. To this end, a foot of a user is in each foot receptacle26 f. The user performs walking movements, wherein the first mainelements 1 f are displaced in a linear forward and rearward manner alongthe second main elements 2 f The forward and the rearward movement isdamped by way of the friction damping installations 3 f. The dampingeffect is favourably adjustable. In particular the legs of a user canthus be trained. The training station is preferably relocatable.

What is claimed is:
 1. A training device for one of maintaining andimproving physical fitness, comprising a) a first main element, b) asecond main element, i) wherein the first main element and the secondmain element for training a user are manually movable in relation to oneanother in at least one activation direction of the training device; andc) at least one damping installation for damping a relative movementbetween the first main element and the second main element, said dampinginstallation being effective between the first main element and thesecond main element.
 2. The training device according to claim 1,wherein at least one of the group comprising a first grip connected tothe first main element and a second grip connected to the second mainelement is provided.
 3. The training device according to claim 1,wherein the at least one damping installation is fastened to the firstmain element.
 4. The training device according to claim 1, wherein theat least one damping installation engages in regions in the first mainelement.
 5. The training device according to claim 1, wherein the atleast one damping installation projects axially in relation to the firstmain element.
 6. The training device according to claim 1, wherein theat least one damping installation is configured as a friction dampinginstallation, wherein the at least one damping installation has at leastone friction element for bearing in a friction-imparting manner on thesecond main element.
 7. The training device according to claim 6,wherein the at least one friction element in the at least one activationdirection is held so as to be immobile in relation to the first mainelement.
 8. The training device according to claim 6, wherein the atleast one friction element in the at least one activation direction isheld so as to be immobile in relation to the first main element at alltimes.
 9. The training device according to claim 6, wherein the at leastone damping installation furthermore has at least one main body on whichthe at least one friction element is disposed, wherein the at least onemain body and the at least one friction element in the at least oneactivation direction are immobile in relation to one another.
 10. Thetraining device according to claim 9, wherein the at least one main bodyand the at least one friction element in the at least one activationdirection are immobile in relation to one another at all times.
 11. Thetraining device according to claim 9, wherein the at least one main bodycomprises at least one receptacle clearance for receiving the at leastone friction element.
 12. The training device according to claim 1,wherein a training resistance of the at least one damping installationis variable.
 13. The training device according to claim 12, wherein atraining resistance of the at least one damping installation isinfinitely variable.
 14. The training device according to claim 1,wherein the at least one damping installation damps in two mutuallyopposite activation directions.
 15. The training device according toclaim 14, wherein the at least one damping installation damps in twomutually opposite activation directions at all times.
 16. The trainingdevice according to claim 15, wherein the at least one dampinginstallation damps in two mutually opposite activation directionsconsistently.
 17. The training device according to claim 1, comprisingat least one guide part for guiding the main elements in relation to oneanother, said guide part being disposed between the first main elementand the second main element.
 18. The training device according to claim1, wherein the first main element and the second main element areinterconnected in a telescopic manner.
 19. The training device accordingto claim 1, wherein the first main element and the second main elementare rotatable in relation to one another, wherein a relative movementbetween the two former is capable of being damped by the at least onedamping installation.
 20. The training device according to claim 1,wherein said training device is embodied as a hand-held apparatus. 21.The training device according to claim 1, wherein at least one agonistand at least one associated antagonist as the adversary of a user aretrainable.
 22. A training station, comprising at least one trainingdevice according to claim
 1. 23. The training station according to claim22, comprising a main frame and at least one activation element foractivation by a user, said at least one activation element being mountedon the main frame, wherein the at least one training device whilegenerating a training resistance damps the activation of the at leastone activation element.
 24. The training station according to claim 23,wherein the main frame supports at least one seat for the user.
 25. Thetraining station according to claim 22, comprising at least one of thegroup comprising at least one arm training installation for training atleast one arm of a user, at least one torso training installation fortraining a torso of a user, and at least one leg training installationfor training at least one leg of a user.
 26. A use of a training deviceaccording to claim 1 for training at least one agonist and at least oneassociated antagonist as the adversary of a user.